27.12.06

<> Nisker. Friends! Earthlings! Humans! Who are we, how did we get into the mess we’re in, and is there any hope for us and our species? In this comic monologue, Wes Nisker explores the foolish human condition and the joys and sorrows of living in the modern age. He will reveal the secrets of anti-matter and tantric sex, explore the issues of war, species extinction and global warming, and expose the true heart of the New Age spiritual movement. Mr. Nisker places today’s headlines in the context of biological evolution and all of human history, and thereby offers us the relief and laughter that only vast perspectives can bring. Ahimsa House 26 Horan Street, West End doors open 7pm, show starts 8pm, $15/ $10 concession. A no-alcohol event.

“His performance, laced with his original songs, manages to make suffering a knee-slapper. He delivers Zen zingers with Borsht Belt timing.” (New York Times)

“This show is fantastic and hilarious.” (Ram Dass)

“Confirming, uplifting, enlightening!” (KFOG-FM, San Francisco)

“Scoop Nisker is the missing link between sit-down meditation and stand up comedy.” (Paul Krassner, editor of the Realist )

Wes “Scoop” Nisker is an author, radio commentator, Buddhist meditation teacher, and performer. His books include The Big Bang, the Buddha, and the Baby Boom (HarperSanFrancisco, 2003), the newly edited version of his national bestseller, Essential Crazy Wisdom (Ten Speed Press, 2001), and Buddha’s Nature (Bantam, 1999). Mr. Nisker is also the founder and co-editor of the international Buddhist journal “Inquiring Mind.”

26.12.06

Tijuana CartelSaturday 10th Febraury 800pm $10 Tallebudgera Valley HallGold Coast with Amanaska and George & O'Sullivan.These evening promises to be an event like no other the Gold Coast has seen. Three world class dance fusion acts playing on the one bill. Tijuana Cartels Flamenco Guitar Electronica and spellbinding MC, One World label star Simon Lewis of Amanaska ( N'fa & 1200Techniques) with his extraordinary Multi Instrumentalist and Visual Artistry and to start the evening, the chilled out accoustic world beats of George & OSullivan.

All tickets and enquiries please call The Art of Mother Earth on 0438 945 766 or email maleny@tpg.com.au

"The kind of gig you watch and prayed would never end, charged with such magic that you knew you would be telling people about it in years to come". - Straight No Chaser (UK)

Cross a bridge of culture, time, traditions, music and mysticism to a place where ancient Arabic musical traditions meld with contemporary jazz, rock and electronica.

Inspirational Vocalist and master oud player DHAFER YOUSSEF has established himself as one of the most extraordinary and exciting artists working in contemporary music. In his first Australian appearance, Dhafer will be joined by tabla master JATINDER THAKUR, and the soul stirring DIVINE SHADOWS STRING QUARTET.

Tunisian born-Europe based DHAFER brings together the sonic echoes of his middle eastern roots with the western cool of Norway's nu jazz. Dhafer draws on the Islamic Sufi roots of his homeland, Tunisia, and translates these into electronic lounge vibes and jazzy improvisations with cutting-edge loops and ambient sounds. The result is modern experimental music that is at once spiritual and reflective as well as passionate and exhilarating.

Whilst his hypnotic music alone is enough to entrance an audience, Dhafer also has an otherworldly voice that is itself a unique instrument. Starting as a low, husky rumble and growing into a perfect upper-register operatic note, you will find yourself stunned by his control and clarity. Even without a microphone, this man can unleash a pure acoustic projection that is truly awe-inspiring.

Dhafer’s fourth album, Divine Shadows introduces a new dimension to the band’s overall sound and live performances. . An evening of musical spirituality not to be missed .

24.12.06

This beautiful new Noosa Venue will come alive with The Brides of Grooves' dirty Balkan funk dance grooves with live looping on windsynth and digital drums. Linsey Pollak and Jess Ainsworth, joined by Ric Halstead on sax.

Also the hypnotic dance beats of Sunshine Coasts' own OKA with Chris Lane, Matt Aitchison and Didgeristu taking you on a journey of the colours of earth's music. Back after some amazing Woodford performances and just prior to their Japan and Canadian Tours , OKA promise to creaty unity of movement on the dance floor.

All tickets and enquiries please call The Art of Mother Earth on 0438 945 766 or email maleny@tpg.com.au

Launch the year with music for your soulExperience the unique traditional music of two diverse Asian countries, Indonesia and Korea through the music of artists Michelle Kim and Efiq Zulfiqar.

Soothing melodies of Karawitan Sunda Music and the inspirational tunes of Korean traditional Gayageum (Zither-like stringed instrument) with South Korean vocals is a sensational way to launch the first of the BEMAC Cultivart series in 2007.

With strong traditional values and belief in her South Korean culture, Michelle Kim has performed in major Brisbane and International music festivals and events, honing her innate skills to professional precision. She will delight BEMAC audiences with her voice and virtuoso playing of the Gayageum.

Apart from the commitment he has as core member of well known bands ’Krakatau’ and ‘Sambasunda’ Efiq Zulfiqar found time to compose and create new music as a solo performer. In this concert Efiq will take you a journey through the traditional Karawitan Sunda music from the islands of West Java.

Come celebrate the Full Moon with an evening of Funky World Dance music and contagious beats from three of Australia's cutting edge musical groups and guest Visual Artists.All tickets and enquiries please call The Art of Mother Earth on 0438 945 766 or email maleny@tpg.com.au

Come celebrate Australia day with the OKA boys on Caloundra's Kings Beach.

Coolum: Tijuana CartelFriday 26th January 800pm $10 SOLBAR Coolum

Australia day will never be the same at the SolBar with this Gold Coast based act developing a loyal Sunshine Coast following previous sold out performances. The Flamenco Funk World dance group return from their New Years Eve performance at Peats Ridge Festival for an encore show that promises to have you dancing. Their last show prior to an East Coast Tour and then off overseas to record their follow up album to the very successful Frequent Flyers. This evening should not be missed.

11.12.06

We are very delighted to bring return performances and workshops by Deva Premal and Miten in January and February 2007.

"Our music is born out of meditation and a celebration of life.It's not a matter of entertaining people." says Miten.

By popular request, Deva and Miten are offering performances in each capital city, and Byron Bay. And for the first time they are offering workshops in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. (These workshops are a fun and intimate sharing with Deva and Miten and together we will be exploring and experiencing devotional singing, chanting, meditating, talking, sufi-circle dancing, laughing, praying, communing....And having loads of fun)

Again this year we are blessed that Manose will be joining the tour. Manose is a Nepalese bansuri player [Indian flute] and has been performing with Deva and Miten at most of their performances around the world. You can visit his website at www.manosemusic.com

Ticket sales are very steady so we highly encourage you to consider purchasing your tickets sooner rather than later. Some of you will remember last year we sold out almost a week prior to the performances. Dates for each event are on the registration page (and on the poster) on our website at www.chrishooper.com.au

You can purchase tickets by mail order or internet ONLY until the dates listed below. If you are ordering via mail order, we need to RECEIVE your cheque or money order (made out to Chris Hooper Promotions and posted to PO Box 160 Warrandyte VIC 3113) BY the dates listed below. PLEASE NOTE WE ARE NOT ACCEPTING ANY TELEPHONE BOOKINGS.

There is no guarantee that there will be ticket sales at the door as we may be sold out prior. Cost is $40 performance and $70 workshop. We look forward to greeting you at one or more of these events in the very near future.

Some Testimonials:"Beautiful music, beautiful..." H.H. The Dalai Lama

"I love the music of Deva Premal and Miten. It is truly a portal into Presence. As you listen, the sacred space that lies beyond the mind emerges naturally and effortlessly. Pure magic..." Eckhart Tolle (Author of 'The Power of Now')

"This event was a gift.. Thank you Deva, Miten and Manose for your presence."

"We are so grateful for your inspirational presence and your union of Divine Feminine and Divine Masculine."

"It was a sacred evening of singing, music and prayer and it was indeed a blessing to be there...."

"First I want to thank you for a glorious and uplifting concert. It truly is a gift to our planet and humanity to have the name of God chanted from such devoted hearts as yours. I just moved to Ashland and your concert set the tone for my reason to be here..."

"Thank you! The concert was divine! It was so fabulous to be with you live!"

9.12.06

Kangaroo Moon are Back!!For this, their only showoutside of the Woodford Folk Festival , we will see a rare convergence of their UK and Aussie line up:Mark Robson (keyboards, vocals, whistles & didge), Mat Ledgar (Drums), Maurice Cernigoi (bass), and Steve Berry (guitar) will be joined by long time UK fiddler Elliet Mackrell.

9.11.06

With the courtesy of Srilankan Buddhist Temple Yoga Studio Nada has arranged the Evening of Devotion Celebrating for the Beginning of New Year 2007 and passing over the meritorious deeds throughout the last year.Everyone is warmly welcome to part take in this occasion

The proceedings are as follows

Please arrive at 18:30 Arrival of Monks at 7pmShort talk about event by the MonksShort guided MeditationPiritra Chanting for blessing by the Noble Triple Gem (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha)Cup of Tea and informal discussion with MonksDeparture of Monks at 21:00

Please let us know how to arrange your sitting accommodationBring a plate of fruit dried or fresh to shareMonks do not eat food or drink milk after 7pm

3.11.06

Hi everyone,Just letting you know that Jambezi will be playing 3 gigs at the Woodford Folk Festival this year. We are thrilled to have Linsey Pollack (sax), Malcolm Wood (trumpet), Matt Hill (guitar) and Tony Kicken (vocals) performing with us this year so it's gonna to be big!Gig times areFri 29th 11pm Chai TentSat 30th 5pm The Grande (Big Top) and again that night at 11pm in the Chai Tent.Our CD will also be available at the festival shop.And don't forget to catch the funky roving percussion trolley Sprocket on the streets...I can't give you set times but we'll be hitting the streets as of the 28th anytime after duskHope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a beautiful new year ahead.With loveFatima

The process that occurs between the three artists is a first in Australia and more than likely a first worldwide. It is performance and musical risk taking in the extreme.The lyricist, Peter Rowe has minimal verbal communication skills and uses facilitated communication (FC) to communicate with others. FC is a mode of assisted communication using a board with letters, numbers and some words on it, very similar to the set up on a computer keyboard.

It is on this board that Peter writes the lyrics. He improvises completely new songs by pointing to letters on the board that are read by Terri. This is done at breakneck speed that takes considerable practice and rapport. The words that Peter taps out are read and then sung by Terri. (Think about it a bit…….Peter is totally improvising a complete concert of song text, and……as Terri sings the words that Peter writes she is simultaneously reading the next ones). Her melodies are totally improvised in response to the music that Linsey is creating by improvising and “live looping” (playing, recording and building up complex layers of various sounds) using his WX5 (a midi windsynth).

All three artists agree that this is one of the most extraordinary projects that any of them have worked on…..they describe it as a process where the sense of self becomes blurred. The ego is consumed by the necessity of absolute group focus. It is improvisation in its purist form, where each performer must let go of any expectations or preconceptions. There must be no fear when stepping off the edge. It is a process that is undeniably liberating for the three performers.

When qwerty walk on the stage they don’t know where the performance will go. They have no idea of the song content or the musical style, let alone such details as key or time signature. Audiences are certainly taken on quite a journey, sometimes emotional, sometimes funny, sometimes philosophical, often intense and always musically eclectic. It is difficult for some people to accept that it all is being totally created in this way before their eyes and ears. Some people particularly find it difficult to understand and believe the process of Facilitated Communication. However it’s real…….extraordinary, but real

'Few experiences are as deserving of being labeled 'A MUST' in the entertainment world as Qwerty. With sublime aesthetic, playful dynamic and infinite imagination, this ever-ready team of improvisers challenge the moment, themselves and their audience on the threshold between necessary thought provocation and pure raw emotion. They have been a catalyst for more tears, laughter, hope and inspiration than I've ever seen in an audience. The reason is because their work is disarmingly real in every sense of our perception and its reflection on our existence. It is quite simply evolutionary art.'Carl Pannuzzo

The Ric Halstead & Linsey Pollak duo will provide the first half of the night's entertainment.This is uniquely original music featuring the liquid sound of Ric's tenor and soprano saxophones soaring and improvising over looped grooves on Linsey's windsynth "Lyrebird".

1.11.06

Taro Terahara has been wowing audiences all around our region on his first Australian tour. If you've missed those concerts, don't miss this chance to hear this wonderful Indian classical bansuri player in intimate home and temple concerts this week - his last concerts in Brisbane on this tour. This kind of music is best heard in such intimate settings, as those who attended the fabulous home concert hosted by Indian Times editor Umesh Chandra on Saturday will attest. The West End home concert on Thursday will feature a special collaboration with Guinean kora player Lansana Camara, while the Temple concert on Friday will be held in a beautiful devotional atmosphere. Don't miss out!!!

Taro Terahara is one of the leading musicians in the thriving and highly competitive Indian classical music scene in Japan. Having played various wind instruments since childhood he took his initial training in bansuri with Pt. Hari Prasad Chaurasia’s senior Japanese disciple, Hiroshi Nakagawa, followed by lessons in India with Pandit Hari-ji himself. In recent years he has been taking instruction from Amit Roy, a sitar disciple of Pt. Nikhil Banerjee.

Taro’s music comfortably spans the full range from contemplative soulful alaap (slow non-rhythmic introduction) to exciting, rhythmic jhala (fast-paced finale). He has a great command of sur (tuning) and lay (timing), with the ability to compose innovative taans and tihais on the spur of the moment, yet all of this is tempered by a beautiful humility and devotion to the mood and spirit of the raga. His music both engages the mind and touches the heart.

Lansana Camara is from a long line of musicians on both his mother's and father's sides of the family. A talented multi-instrumentalist, he will delight you with beautiful traditional West African songs played on the Kora. His melodious voice is a beautiful accompaniment to its captivating sound. The Mandinka kora is a unique instrument with a harp-like appearance and a notched bridge similar to that of a lute or guitar. It is sometimes known as the African Harp.

Shen Flindell's tabla playing is noted for his clear sound, comfortable rhythmic sense, intuitive accompaniment, wide repertoire, adept bayan (bass) and a feeling of sincere devotion to Guru, Saraswati, Music and Tabla, thanks to many blessings from his Guru-ji Pt. Ashutosh Bhattacharya of Varanasi. Since 2002, Shen has been jointly based in Japan, India and Australia, and has performed with leading Indian classical artists in all three countries, including Smt. Raka Mukherjee and Ustad Ghulam Sadiq Khan.

14.10.06

Leaders in the thriving Indian music scene of Japan, these two artists' devotion to Guru, Music and Instrument will touch your heart, engage your mind and transport your spirit from calm to elation, in the true essence of Indian Classical Music.

Taro’s music comfortably spans the full range from contemplative soulful alaap (slow non-rhythmic introduction) to exciting, rhythmic jhala (fast-paced finale). He has a great command of sur (tuning) and lay (timing), with the ability to compose innovative taans and tihais on the spur of the moment, yet all of this is tempered by a beautiful humility and devotion to the mood and spirit of the raga. His music both engages the mind and touches the heart.

Shen Flindell's tabla playing is noted for his clear sound, comfortable rhythmic sense, intuitive accompaniment, wide repertoire, adept bayan (bass) and a feeling of sincere devotion to Guru, Saraswati, Music and Tabla, thanks to many blessings from his Guru-ji Pt. Ashutosh Bhattacharya of Varanasi. Since 2002, Shen has been jointly based in Japan, India and Australia, and has performed with leading Indian classical artists in all three countries, including Smt. Raka Mukherjee and Ustad Ghulam Sadiq Khan.

On this tour, Taro and Shen will be joined by guest artists Indian vocalist Sulagna Basu in Toowoomba and Ipswich (Dec 8-9) and by Tibetan singer Tenzin Choegyal in Gold Coast (Dec 9), Byron (Dec 10), Maroochydore (Dec 15) and Brisbane (Dec 16). Sulagna Basu is a multi-talented North Indian Kathak Dancer, Harmonium player and singer whose vocals span Indian classical to semi-classical to folk.Tenzin Choegyal is well-known all around Australia for his soul-stirring Tibetan folk and nomad songs, powerful voice and good vibrations.

12.10.06

Ganga Giri and special guestsSaturday 16th Decemberat Tallebudgera Valley Community Hall Ganga Giri has recently returned from a hugely successful tour of Europe and Canada. GANGA GIRI comes to the Gold Coast for a don’t miss event. For this awesome concert Ganga will have indigenous dancers performing with him and he will be supported by top class DJ Adham Shaikh from Canada.Ganga's last Gold coast shows were huge and the Tally hall only takes 200 people so book your tickets early though MOSHTIX www.moshtix.com.au . I've personally seen Ganga Giri perform many times........including headlining at the Woodford Folk Festival on New Years eve a few years ago - truly an AWESOME performer and you will want to dance and dance and dance!!!Based in Melbourne, Australia, Ganga Giri personifies the sound of the traditional Australian Didjeridu creating a powerful rhythmic style. The ensemble mixes pumping, percussive Didjeridu with fat tribal beats, funky dub bass lines with world percussion sounds to create a unique tribal-technological deep earth dance experience. Explosive and pulsating, at times ambient and flowing, the music is a multi-layered experience of complex grooves and raw natural sound that impel you to move to a beat so deep and so intense that it touches your very soul. Ganga Giri's music appeals to a diverse audience of many ages & cultures. His music has been widely & wildly appreciated the world over.Ganga Giri has performed and headlined at major festivals around the world including:Vancouver Folk Festival, CanadaBoom Festival, PortugalSziget Festival, HungaryEarthdance Festival, CaliforniaWeisen Festival, AustriaShambahla Music Festival, BC CanadaA festados Mundas bei A Coruna, SpainVoov Party, GermanyZoom Party Cybertribal Festival, Switzerland Welt Music Festival, GermanyBurning Man Festival, USASea of Dreams, New Years USAJoshua Tree Music Festival, USAPaulusfeestan Festival, BelgiumTollwood Festival, GermanyCarnival der Kulturen, GermanyWOMAD, Australia & UKEarthcore, AustraliaEvery Picture Tells a Story, AustraliaThe Falls Festival, Australia (New Years Eve slot)The Lizard Festival, UKDreamtime Festival, GermanyOkayama International Music Festival, JapanDestination Dance Party, NZEdinburgh Festival, ScotlandThe 2000 Olympics, Sydney, AustraliaThe Sultan of BruneiWoodford Folk Festival, AustraliaSt.Kilda Festival, AustraliaExodus Festival, AustraliaRainbow Serpent Festival, AustraliaGanga’s didj sounds have featured on the soundtrack for the feature films Yolngu Boy (2000), Rabbit Proof Fence (2002) and on Peter Gabriel’s CD Ovo.Experience the manic-organic, uplifting global dance grooves that are completely unique and are completely GANGA GIRI. Ganga Giri is releasing his 7th CD ' Raising it Up" which will be available on the night.Venue: Tallebudgera Valley Community Hall611 Tallebudgera Creek RdTallebudgera ValleyQLD (about 10kms inland from Burleigh Heads)Take exit 89 on M1 Motorway, turn right onto Tallebudgera Creek Rd at IFS service station traffic lights, hall is 7.2kms on left

Tickets: $18 + BF -Limit of 200 pre-sale tickets so be quick to book online through MOSHTIX www.moshtix.com.au or phone moshtix direct 07 3117 0563Ganga Giri spends most of his time playing big festivals throughout Australia and overseas. It is rare to experience such a musical master in a small venue like the Tallebudgera Valley Community Hall. Cost at Door: $25 (if available) Children Under 15 Free "Ganga Giri is a wonderful musician. I first heard him at a Womad festival and loved the mix of his ancient and primitive instrument with a wide range of great dance grooves. Ganga is really taking the didgeridoo to places it has never been before and developing a unique style of music" - Peter GabrielWe look forward to dancin with you.Keep On Smilin!Ken and DebbiePromoter:Ken JacobPO Box 411West Burleigh QLD 4219Tel: 07 5533 8960Fax 07 5533 8961events@kjpromo.com.auwww.kjpromo.com.au

These evenings of music in November and December, will feature the genius of Steve Oda on sarode and the inspired tabla playing of Ty Burhoe. The sarode is one of the shining stars of Indian classical instruments. Steve's deep knowledge of the tradition and his creative, joyous expression bring the ancient yogic states of meditation into contact with the intensity of modern life. The tabla is considered one of the most complex instruments on the planet and is capable of producing an amazingly sophisticated and melodious voice. Ty's playful and expressive playing style invites the listener to "let go", and come into rhythm with the heart. In addition, Ty will be offering The Art of Rhythm Tabla workshops.

7.10.06

Circle of RhythmFriday 1st December A & I Hall BangalowDoors open 7.30 for Show at 8pmFood and Drink by Let Them Eat CakeTickets $18/$16 at the door only

Heralded as Australia's most exciting rhythm trio, Greg Sheehan, Bobby Singh and Ben Walsh, have between them changed the face of percussion in Australia. After ten years of defining and redefining what Australian drumming can offer the world they have formed a percussion trio with a difference, rich in culture from the various styles all three dynamic performers have spent their lives exploring. Don't miss out on seeing them.

6.10.06

My old sarod buddy Matt Noone is back from his round-the-world trip, so we'll be practising back at Cafe Checocho in Hardgrave Rd on Thursday evenings again. Please come and share the vibe!Contrary to the (old) graphic above, we'll be starting at 7pm.

5.10.06

In Africa drumming and dance are ONE, the rhythm and movement inseparable, the one mirrored in the other. These classes are dedicated to understanding this connection. Half of each class focuses upon the drumming & the other half upon the dance, as the rhythm is played by Elliott and friends. Participants are encouraged to learn both or may choose to focus on either side of this union.

4.10.06

Just letting you all know that Jambezi is set to launch their debut CD at the Cooroy RSL Hall on Saturday November 25th. This long awaited album features 11 tracks of up-tempo and joyful contemporary and traditional marimba songs from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Zaire. Featuring a variety of marimbas (wooden Xylophones), mbira (thumb piano), drums, percussion, brass, vocals and a hint of guitar, this is some of the happiest and fun music you're ever likely to hear.

Supporting Jambezi is Brides of Groove, who play dirty Balkan funk dance grooves on windsynth and digital drums. They are Linsey Pollak and Jess Ainsworth, joined by Ric Halstead on sax. With'm Rhythms, an up and coming group of young marimba players will kickstart the night. There will be delicious food and drinks available on the night. Doors open 7pm and the cost is only $10 to get in or $25 with a CD. Kids under 12 are free. More on Jambezi is available at our website www.jambezimusic.com or myspace www.myspace.com/jambezimusic

3.10.06

TIJUANA CARTEL - Funky Flamenco World Dance Music www.myspace.com/tijuanacartelbandFriday 24 November Upfront Club Maleny 730pm $ 10 membersSaturday 25 November Sol Bar Coolum 830pm $12TIJUANA CARTEL:-SPANISH guitars didn’t exactly go with funky beats the way fish go with chips, however the breaks Tijuana Cartel are showing the world just how good the combo can sound.

In an era where appropriation is worn almost like a badge of honour, this Gold Coast act buck the trend and continue to expand, experiment and draw influence from an ever-widening circle of world and club sounds.

Vocalist and lead guitarist Paul George’s flamenco strings slither over some tastefully broken beats, combined with Carey O’Sullivan’s primo electronic production, and rhythm guitar, have resulted in the bands two albums. First was a self-titled 2003 debut ep, which was featured on triple j's Home and Hosed, and Groove Train, and now their 2005 follow up album Frequent Flyers has evolved.

This new record brings splashes of Middle Eastern vocals to the mix, alongside some lilting Moby-esque soundscapes and get-up-and-dance beatfests - a club-friendly selection without a dull moment.

Tijuana Cartel, introduce a somewhat intelligent and original sound to the ear, bringing flamenco guitar,slide guitar, MCs, percussion and scratch DJs to the live forum and their list of shows and residencies proves just how well their beguiling sounds cross boundaries.Tijuana Cartel plays at the Upfront Club Friday 24th November at 730pm and then at the SolBar Coolum on Saturday 25th November at 830pm. Tickets available at the door for both performances. www.myspace.com/tijuanacartelband

Funky world dance tunes birthed from Flamenco guitar, MCs, percussion and scratch DJs. The music moves stylishly from sound scapes of the sub continent to more familiar sounds of blues, MC’s and hip hop beats, all spiced with an Indian spiritual mix. Slide guitar and Indian Sitar morph seamlessly into the hypnotic beats of western hip-hop. A nurturing wave of world sounds that you just can not stop dancing to. Travel the world in an evening and freedom shall be your souvenir.peace..Daniel WilsonThe Art of Mother EarthArtist and Event ManagementP O Box 997Maleny QLD 4552T: 0754 999 579M: 0438 945 766E: motherearthevents@tpg.com.au

2.10.06

qwerty is the amazing improvising wordsmith Peter Rowewith facilitated communication and soaring vocals by Terri Delaneyand live looping of WX5 windsyth by Linsey Pollakand, for the first time, including live camera projection and vision mix by Chris Peckham.

Enter an 'improvortex' with the enigmatic qwerty as they cross, divert and skip musical and verbal boundaries creating totally improvised songs and musical stories.

qwerty is the amazing improvising wordsmith Peter Rowe with facilitated communication and soaring vocals by Terri Delaney and live looping of WX5 windsyth by Linsey Pollak.

qwerty is unique.The process that occurs between the three artists is a first in Australia and more than likely a first worldwide. It is performance and musical risk taking in the extreme.The lyricist, Peter Rowe has minimal verbal communication skills and uses facilitated communication (FC) to communicate with others. FC is a mode of assisted communication using a board with letters, numbers and some words on it, very similar to the set up on a computer keyboard.

It is on this board that Peter writes the lyrics. He improvises completely new songs by pointing to letters on the board that are read by Terri. This is done at breakneck speed that takes considerable practice and rapport. The words that Peter taps out are read and then sung by Terri. (Think about it a bit…….Peter is totally improvising a complete concert of song text, and……as Terri sings the words that Peter writes she is simultaneously reading the next ones). Her melodies are totally improvised in response to the music that Linsey is creating by improvising and “live looping” (playing, recording and building up complex layers of various sounds) using his WX5 (a midi windsynth).

All three artists agree that this is one of the most extraordinary projects that any of them have worked on…..they describe it as a process where the sense of self becomes blurred. The ego is consumed by the necessity of absolute group focus. It is improvisation in its purist form, where each performer must let go of any expectations or preconceptions. There must be no fear when stepping off the edge. It is a process that is undeniably liberating for the three performers.

When qwerty walk on the stage they don’t know where the performance will go. They have no idea of the song content or the musical style, let alone such details as key or time signature. Audiences are certainly taken on quite a journey, sometimes emotional, sometimes funny, sometimes philosophical, often intense and always musically eclectic. It is difficult for some people to accept that it all is being totally created in this way before their eyes and ears. Some people particularly find it difficult to understand and believe the process of Facilitated Communication. However it’s real…….extraordinary, but real

In the words of some audience members:

“Sublime joy! qwerty inspires a sense of awe and gratitude and reminds us that we are all one. A triumph of the human spirit”.

“qwerty takes the term "tune in" to a whole other dimension”.

“qwerty takes us on a journey through improvised words, music and voice that reaches into the soul”

'Few experiences are as deserving of being labeled 'A MUST' in the entertainment world as Qwerty. With sublime aesthetic, playful dynamic and infinite imagination, thisever-ready team of improvisers challenge the moment, themselves and their audience on the threshold between necessary thought provocation and pure raw emotion. They have been a catalyst for more tears, laughter, hope and inspiration than I've ever seen in an audience.The reason is because their work is disarmingly real in every sense of our perception and its reflection on our existence. It is quite simply evolutionary art.'Carl Pannuzzo

More information below!!!! Hope to see you there!!cheers,Donna Geewww.donnagee.tk

The old substation at Paddington will fire up again in November with an art exhibition to mark the official launch of KILNcreative, a local artists and filmmakers collective. The brainchild of local filmmakers, Tom Francis, Imke Schueler and Maurice Powell, KILN was established in 2005 as a production company and since then has grown to incorporate photography and now the visual arts. With the introduction of artists John Morris, Danielle O’Brien, Travis Hendrix and Donna Gee, KILN will stage what promises to be the first in a series of regular art exhibitions.

Alongside stunning paintings, KILN’s first exhibition will feature exciting new work by KILN’s resident sculptor and best kept secret, John Morris. Morris works in wood to create outstandingly original figurative pieces with impeccable craftsmanship.

As well as working on private commissions and taking care of art-department for KILN’s TV and film projects, the visual arts team are focussed on working with interior designers, architects and public art agencies to create distinctive, innovative and creative outcomes. KILN’s focus is to connect clients with the highest quality art, photography and film

18.9.06

ARABESKNov 18th Coorabell HallDoors open 7.30 for Show at 8pmTickets $16/!4 at the doorFood and drink by Coffee OasisArabesk’ are some of Australia’s top and most respected musicians: Veren Grigorov on violin and viola, Rob Shannon on guitar and D’rrbuka, internationally renowned drummer/percussionist Calvin Welch and bassist James Haselwood. A Sydney based quartet, they have adopted the rhythms and melodies of a vast global symphony and moulded them into their own unique style. Theirs is a journey of constant discovery that has taken them from the tradition steeped back streets of Eastern Europe to the bustling bazaars of Turkey. Added to this potent worldly brew are a list of influences that include luminaries such as guitarist Django Reinhardt, jazz drummer Elvin Jones, Tango master Astor Piazzola and bassist Stanley Clarke.

Formed by Veren Grigorov and Rob Shannon, Arabesk’ is a stunningly talented quartet of musicians. Bulgarian born founder Veren has previously played with Four Play, toured with chamber orchestras and INXS and composed prolifically for theatre and TV productions. Co-founder Rob has been with numerous world and jazz combos and is an avid fan of the great gypsy virtuoso Django Reinhardt. Michigan born Calvin Welch is one of the most respected and experienced musicians on the local and international music scene, having played with the likes of Sonny Stitt, Grant Green, Renee Geyer, Jackie Orszaczky and Professor Groove to name just a few. The youngest member James has an equally eclectic background and in just a short space of time has already played with artists such as Panjea, Paul Mac, Abby Dobson, Jade McCrae and Alex Lloyd.

With such a wealth of musical experience it’s little wonder Arabesk’ are such a powerhouse of invention and innovation, fused with constant hypnotic rhythms and laced with the lushness of violins and guitars. Their music has been likened to a series of “conversations across the ages” where all kinds of traditions converge into a modern day celebration of intoxicating global grooves. Judging by the enormous reception they received at the recent Great Escape Festival, from an audience across all age groups, it’s obvious they have hit upon a true international language.

Arabesk’ play a brand of music that is often described as Gypsy Soul. For those looking to embark on a journey of authentic musical exploration, not contained by any cultural boundary, they are a band guaranteed to put some real “gypsy” in your “soul”.